Newsy/DC Bureau launch "Getting A Fix" investigative series

CINCINNATI — Newsy, the next-generation national news network, and the Scripps Washington Bureau have launched “Getting A Fix,” a new series focused on their joint investigation into the opioid crisis.

The series presents an on-the-ground look at solutions to the devastating opioid epidemic in the United States. In this series, Newsy and the Scripps Washington Bureau investigative team research the emergence of synthetic opioids, like fentanyl and carfentanil, while providing an in-depth look at who is trying to solve the crisis and how.

"Opioid abuse continues to decimate American communities, yet we’re still struggling to come up with an answer to the problem,” said Blake Sabatinelli, general manager of Newsy. “With ‘Getting A Fix,’ Newsy and the Scripps Washington Bureau are providing the context and perspective needed to truly understand the problem and work toward solutions."

“Carfentanil and other synthetic opioids are driving forces in this epidemic,” said Ellen Weiss, vice president and Washington bureau chief. “Our investigation into what first responders, local, state and national officials know about where these compounds come from and the true extent of their impact provides the public with a powerful set of facts to help address this growing crisis. Together, we’ve created a series we hope will further our audience’s understanding of one of the most prevalent issues impacting people across the country today.”

“Getting A Fix” features five video episodes, each one less than 5 minutes:

Episode 2 explores a local solution through The Overdose Detection Mapping Application Program, or ODMAP, which helps first responders collect overdose data in real time.

Episode 3 researches a national solution, through the DEA Special Testing and Research Laboratory’s identification of new synthetic drugs is helping law enforcement.

In episode 4, the Scripps Washington Bureau investigates carfentanil and how those on the front lines, EMS, police, the DEA/Customs and Border patrol are confronting the deadly synthetic drug.

Episode 5 reviews the significant spike in carfentanil-related deaths and the challenges in tracking how great a problem carfentanil has become.

New episodes will air weekly on any of Newsy's channels on cable and over-the-top platforms including YouTube TV, Hulu, Sling TV, Roku, Apple TV and Amazon Fire TV. "Getting A Fix" also will be online at newsy.com and via the Newsy apps for iOS, Android and Kindle Fire. The series also will air on Scripps local TV stations throughout the month of September. For more information, visit newsy.com/gettingafix.